Yep.  I've straightened several.  It just depends on the damage as to
what method(s) you need to apply.

I've found that pieces of wood (various lengths) together with C-clamps,
a hard rubber hammer, and bags of sand to lay the bumper on before
pounding can do wonders.

If the ones you have are simply beyond repair then getting good (or
repairable) originals is preferable to new aftermarket bumpers.  The
chrome on the originals is of much higher quality.

Mike

------------- wrote:
> Beleive it or not your best bet is to pound out the
> factory original.   With careful workmanship, you can get
> it perfect,  but the wrong hit in the wrong way and you
> can damage the chrome beyond repair.   I've done
> several, and they are almost perfect, everytime.
>
> Brian Workman wrote:
>
>> I just purchased a new 86 westy weekender....it is my first vanagon.
>> It has some pretty banged up chrome bumpers.  I have been looking
>> around at the aftermarket ones which seem reasonable (although I am
>> unfortunately no-where close to the vendors so I will have to get them
>> shipped).  Just curious if these aftermaket are decent quality and if
>> one is any better than the others.  I want something that is going to
>> last.   Seems like the difference between these and custom tube or
>> other bumpers is big time $$$.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>